In the words of past participants...

"IIMIF impressed me with its great teachers, facilities and concerts. Lots of new experiences, like participating in the concert tour and various other performances, helped me overcome my initial shyness, and also gave me lots of opportunities to improve my skills. One of the many things I liked about IIMIF was the reflection time, which was a great time for everyone to share personal experiences; and the morning exercises, which warm-up the muscles you'll be using throughout the day. I also made friends with people from around the globe, including my host family, whom I still stay in touch with."Melody Cheng (Taiwan)

"I wanted to give a huge thank you to you and all of the faculty in making my participation possible! I had such an amazing experience and had such an incredible time. I remember being very nervous coming into the program not knowing what to expect or even knowing anyone there! Everyone was so welcoming and I made incredible friends to last a lifetime. And I got the chance to listen to amazing musicians and see their talents on stage. I learned so much everyday, along with becoming a stronger musician. This camp has truly inspired me. The 10 days went by so fast, and it's amazing to be having so much fun yet be learning a lot at the same time. This was definitely a musical experience to remember and I would definitely recommend it to others."Carolyn Snell (Pennsylvania)

“Thanks to a generous scholarship as well as receiving the Univeristy of Nebraska Hixson-Lied Summer Study Grant, I was able to be among the 30 string and piano students of the 2014 International Music Institute and Festival USA, which took place on the beautiful campus of Mount St. Mary’s University in Emmitsburg, MD… The festival offered more than traditional lessons, coachings and performances. It focused on a holistic approach and comprehensive musicianship… I loved IIMIF’s unique opportunity to take both solo lessons and daily ensemble coachings, with the IIMIF faculty alternating so we never received the same perspective two days in a row… I truly respect the IIMIF faculty for they are excellent performers, teachers and caring people – these skills that do not always go hand in hand… These words are not enough to capture how grateful I am for these two weeks of my life, for everything I have learned, the many performance opportunities I’ve had as well as the personal and professional connections I have made.”Janka Krajciova (Slovakia) - excerpted from blog entry

"IIMIF is a community of incredibly dedicated musicians, always there for support when you need it." Abigail Lo (Maryland)

"I love that this festival is so intimate. Great things come in small packages!" Sydney Bennett (West Virginia)

“We love IIMIF and come back each year because not only does it help improve our playing, but we have formed such a bond with the teachers and other students. The teachers are so inspiring and caring and are excited to share their knowledge with us. They are our role models. it is fun to meet other students from different backgrounds that all share a common love for music and learning. When we leave, we take lifelong lessons and friendships with us.” Sam and Allie Zolkiewicz (Maryland)

"IIMIF focuses on the emotional and spiritual side of the musician just as much as the technical side." Sara Burley (Florida)

"I thought the "holistic" aspects of the experience might be exaggerated, but they weren't and were so fun and memorable! The workshops, masterclasses, and concerts were amazing." Audrey Reuman (Massachusetts)

"I can't imagine a faculty more dedicated to their students than the instructors at IIMIF. Every day they put an incredible amount of time and effort towards helping us progress as musicians which makes IIMIF a truly unique and special place." Isabel Burlingame (Pennsylvania)

"My teachers at IIMIF encouraged and stood by me patiently until I played with the interpretation, feeling, and elegance of their professional standard." Treasan Martingdale (New York)

“IMIF is an opportunity for growth. Definitely musically, but also (very much so) as a person. I've attended IIMIF for four years, and each year I have been further nurtured to become the best human and musician I can be. The reasons I come back are plentiful, and they grow each year. I am inspired by all who I encounter at the institute, whether they are a student or faculty member.”Kara Iwanowski (Maryland) - excerpted from blog entry

"My daughter’s experience at IIMIF was an intense musical experience as well as life experience. Maddie has attended IIMIF for several years, beginning at age 13. There are so many amazing aspects of IIMIF, including the staff, the lectures, THE CONCERTS, and the serene location. However, the most impressive aspect was what Maddie brought home from IIMIF and integrated in her everyday life. She brought home a heightened and renewed commitment to her music; she brought home the understanding that a musician is a whole person, not just someone who can play musical notes and that in order to be a musician, a person must be attentive to all aspects of their life including their mind, body and musical spirit. She was given the tools to effectuate this understanding of a “total musician” and continues to use these invaluable tools in her everyday life. Last, but not least, Maddie met some incredible people from all over the world with whom she stays in touch and is proud to count them among her friends today.”Kim Clifton, Mother (Maryland)